Community & Business
30 May, 2025
Paint Day’s community spirit
MORE than 40 volunteers turned out for the first Mareeba Pioneer Cemetery Paint Day of the year, with people coming from across the region.
“We have been able to paint over 50 plus graves,” organiser Michael Musumeci said.
“There were laughs, smiles and yarns told while many a grave got their third and fourth coats.
“Not only did we have volunteers from Mareeba, but from Townsville, Cairns, Atherton and a great bunch from Vanuatu, who came together to do an outstanding job.
“They have made it shine as though it is brand spanking new.”
Mareeba Red Rooster provided refreshments of chicken, chips, salad and cold drinks for everyone.
“It was an overwhelming gesture of kindness. Not only did the chicken taste bloody beautiful we celebrated National Volunteers Week in style,” Mr Musumeci said.
Deputy Mayor Lenore Wyatt attended the morning and accepted a letter signed by over 35 volunteers. It asks the Mareeba Shire Council to provide recycled bollards which could be installed by volunteers to showcase the Pioneer section.
The volunteer group, founded by local historian Mr Musumeci, has been painting the grave sites at the Pioneer Cemetery in Costin St since 2023, to slowly return it to its original look.
